Heartbreaking News: The Passing of a Legendary Soap Star and Beloved Tea Brand Founder

We’ve seen the rise of television and many great soap opera stars whose careers we have followed over the years. We’ve watched storylines develop, cried and laughed with the characters, and even become embroiled in the behind-the-scenes world of soaps.

These stories were our afternoon companions and gave us topics to talk about over a cup of tea.



Speaking of tea, many of us have enjoyed pouring ourselves a hot cup of the comforting beverage for these eagerly awaited afternoon soap sessions.

In line with these cherished pastimes, it’s with a heavy heart that we share the sad news regarding two extraordinary individuals who have passed away recently.

One was the man behind some of our most-beloved soap opera characters, and the other was the genius who created a popular tea brand many of us may have even sipped while enjoying our beloved soaps.



Nick Benedict, a renowned actor who graced the sets of All My Children, The Young and the Restless, and Days of Our Lives, sadly passed away on his birthday, July 14, at the age of 77.

His death was a result of complications that occurred after he had emergency spinal surgery.



Nick had a memorable acting journey, starting in 1973 when he played the character of Phil Brent in All My Children, stepping into the role previously held by Richard Hatch.

He left a lasting impression that went beyond the boundary of the show, securing himself a Daytime Emmy nomination for ‘Outstanding Actor in a Daytime Drama Series’ in 1979.

You might also remember him as Michael Scott in The Young and the Restless and Curtis Reed in Days of Our Lives.

Also, he didn't limit himself to soap operas and demonstrated his versatility by appearing in renowned series such as Mission Impossible and Hawaii Five-O. His dedication and talent didn't go unnoticed, making him an unforgettable figure in the television industry.


Screen Shot 2023-07-21 at 8.55.53 AM.png
It's with deep sadness that we report the passing of two beloved and world-renowned figures. Credit: Facebook/Michael Fairman TV, Instagram/dilmahceylontea.



While we were still grappling with this loss, we heard another heartbreaking announcement.

The founder of the popular tea brand, Dilmah, Merrill J. Fernando, passed away in Colombo at the age of 93. His death left a void in the industry and in the hearts of his family, who mourn his loss.



What's unique about Fernando is he wasn't just a successful businessperson. He was a visionary who believed in ethical business and disrupting the tea industry, making an impact that changed the lives of many tea producers around the globe.

We thank him for his exceptional tea blends that brought a unique taste and flavour into our homes while also promoting business transparency and sustainability.

Fernando's commitment has left a lasting mark in the industry, inspiring many businesses to follow suit. Our thoughts are with his family during this challenging time, and hope his tradition of integrity and quality will continue.

Key Takeaways

  • Nick Benedict, a key figure in several major soap operas, passed away at the age of 77 due to complications following an emergency spinal surgery.
  • Benedict was known for his roles in soaps such as All My Children, The Young and the Restless and Days of Our Lives. He earned a Daytime Emmy nomination for his outstanding performance in a Daytime Drama Series.
  • Merrill J. Fernando, the founder of the popular tea brand Dilmah, has also passed away at the age of 93, leaving behind a significant legacy in the tea industry.
  • Fernando's dedication to integrity, quality and ethical business radically changed the existing exploitative tea industry, benefiting producers worldwide.

As we mourn these significant losses, let us honour their contributions that brought joy and connection to many. They may have left us, but their legacies will continue to live on—one scene, one cup of tea, at a time.

Their roles—be it on television guiding us through dramatic narratives or in our kitchen providing us with delightful cups of tea—will never be forgotten.

May they rest in peace.
 
Sponsored
It isn't heartbreaking, but inspirational, when someone dies at 93. That man looked like he lived a good, healthy life as a rich Indian.
 
We’ve seen the rise of television and many great soap opera stars whose careers we have followed over the years. We’ve watched storylines develop, cried and laughed with the characters, and even become embroiled in the behind-the-scenes world of soaps.

These stories were our afternoon companions and gave us topics to talk about over a cup of tea.



Speaking of tea, many of us have enjoyed pouring ourselves a hot cup of the comforting beverage for these eagerly awaited afternoon soap sessions.

In line with these cherished pastimes, it’s with a heavy heart that we share the sad news regarding two extraordinary individuals who have passed away recently.

One was the man behind some of our most-beloved soap opera characters, and the other was the genius who created a popular tea brand many of us may have even sipped while enjoying our beloved soaps.



Nick Benedict, a renowned actor who graced the sets of All My Children, The Young and the Restless, and Days of Our Lives, sadly passed away on his birthday, July 14, at the age of 77.

His death was a result of complications that occurred after he had emergency spinal surgery.



Nick had a memorable acting journey, starting in 1973 when he played the character of Phil Brent in All My Children, stepping into the role previously held by Richard Hatch.

He left a lasting impression that went beyond the boundary of the show, securing himself a Daytime Emmy nomination for ‘Outstanding Actor in a Daytime Drama Series’ in 1979.

You might also remember him as Michael Scott in The Young and the Restless and Curtis Reed in Days of Our Lives.

Also, he didn't limit himself to soap operas and demonstrated his versatility by appearing in renowned series such as Mission Impossible and Hawaii Five-O. His dedication and talent didn't go unnoticed, making him an unforgettable figure in the television industry.


View attachment 25620
It's with deep sadness that we report the passing of two beloved and world-renowned figures. Credit: Facebook/Michael Fairman TV, Instagram/dilmahceylontea.



While we were still grappling with this loss, we heard another heartbreaking announcement.

The founder of the popular tea brand, Dilmah, Merrill J. Fernando, passed away in Colombo at the age of 93. His death left a void in the industry and in the hearts of his family, who mourn his loss.



What's unique about Fernando is he wasn't just a successful businessperson. He was a visionary who believed in ethical business and disrupting the tea industry, making an impact that changed the lives of many tea producers around the globe.

We thank him for his exceptional tea blends that brought a unique taste and flavour into our homes while also promoting business transparency and sustainability.

Fernando's commitment has left a lasting mark in the industry, inspiring many businesses to follow suit. Our thoughts are with his family during this challenging time, and hope his tradition of integrity and quality will continue.

Key Takeaways

  • Nick Benedict, a key figure in several major soap operas, passed away at the age of 77 due to complications following an emergency spinal surgery.
  • Benedict was known for his roles in soaps such as All My Children, The Young and the Restless and Days of Our Lives. He earned a Daytime Emmy nomination for his outstanding performance in a Daytime Drama Series.
  • Merrill J. Fernando, the founder of the popular tea brand Dilmah, has also passed away at the age of 93, leaving behind a significant legacy in the tea industry.
  • Fernando's dedication to integrity, quality and ethical business radically changed the existing exploitative tea industry, benefiting producers worldwide.

As we mourn these significant losses, let us honour their contributions that brought joy and connection to many. They may have left us, but their legacies will continue to live on—one scene, one cup of tea, at a time.

Their roles—be it on television guiding us through dramatic narratives or in our kitchen providing us with delightful cups of tea—will never be forgotten.

May they rest in peace.

We only drink Dilmah tea. It's head and shoulders above any other tea. Hubby drinks the Extra Strong and I drink Green Tea and Earl Grey. Beautiful!
 
We’ve seen the rise of television and many great soap opera stars whose careers we have followed over the years. We’ve watched storylines develop, cried and laughed with the characters, and even become embroiled in the behind-the-scenes world of soaps.

These stories were our afternoon companions and gave us topics to talk about over a cup of tea.



Speaking of tea, many of us have enjoyed pouring ourselves a hot cup of the comforting beverage for these eagerly awaited afternoon soap sessions.

In line with these cherished pastimes, it’s with a heavy heart that we share the sad news regarding two extraordinary individuals who have passed away recently.

One was the man behind some of our most-beloved soap opera characters, and the other was the genius who created a popular tea brand many of us may have even sipped while enjoying our beloved soaps.



Nick Benedict, a renowned actor who graced the sets of All My Children, The Young and the Restless, and Days of Our Lives, sadly passed away on his birthday, July 14, at the age of 77.

His death was a result of complications that occurred after he had emergency spinal surgery.



Nick had a memorable acting journey, starting in 1973 when he played the character of Phil Brent in All My Children, stepping into the role previously held by Richard Hatch.

He left a lasting impression that went beyond the boundary of the show, securing himself a Daytime Emmy nomination for ‘Outstanding Actor in a Daytime Drama Series’ in 1979.

You might also remember him as Michael Scott in The Young and the Restless and Curtis Reed in Days of Our Lives.

Also, he didn't limit himself to soap operas and demonstrated his versatility by appearing in renowned series such as Mission Impossible and Hawaii Five-O. His dedication and talent didn't go unnoticed, making him an unforgettable figure in the television industry.


View attachment 25620
It's with deep sadness that we report the passing of two beloved and world-renowned figures. Credit: Facebook/Michael Fairman TV, Instagram/dilmahceylontea.



While we were still grappling with this loss, we heard another heartbreaking announcement.

The founder of the popular tea brand, Dilmah, Merrill J. Fernando, passed away in Colombo at the age of 93. His death left a void in the industry and in the hearts of his family, who mourn his loss.



What's unique about Fernando is he wasn't just a successful businessperson. He was a visionary who believed in ethical business and disrupting the tea industry, making an impact that changed the lives of many tea producers around the globe.

We thank him for his exceptional tea blends that brought a unique taste and flavour into our homes while also promoting business transparency and sustainability.

Fernando's commitment has left a lasting mark in the industry, inspiring many businesses to follow suit. Our thoughts are with his family during this challenging time, and hope his tradition of integrity and quality will continue.

Key Takeaways

  • Nick Benedict, a key figure in several major soap operas, passed away at the age of 77 due to complications following an emergency spinal surgery.
  • Benedict was known for his roles in soaps such as All My Children, The Young and the Restless and Days of Our Lives. He earned a Daytime Emmy nomination for his outstanding performance in a Daytime Drama Series.
  • Merrill J. Fernando, the founder of the popular tea brand Dilmah, has also passed away at the age of 93, leaving behind a significant legacy in the tea industry.
  • Fernando's dedication to integrity, quality and ethical business radically changed the existing exploitative tea industry, benefiting producers worldwide.

As we mourn these significant losses, let us honour their contributions that brought joy and connection to many. They may have left us, but their legacies will continue to live on—one scene, one cup of tea, at a time.

Their roles—be it on television guiding us through dramatic narratives or in our kitchen providing us with delightful cups of tea—will never be forgotten.

May they rest in peace.

RIP. i never heard of either of them. i don't drink tea. i don't watch those boring shows.
 
RIP. i never heard of either of them. i don't drink tea. i don't watch those boring shows.
I’ve gone back to watching my old “ westerns “ back to doing what i did, god knows how many yrs ago. Funny they haven’t changed a bit Haha.
 
We’ve seen the rise of television and many great soap opera stars whose careers we have followed over the years. We’ve watched storylines develop, cried and laughed with the characters, and even become embroiled in the behind-the-scenes world of soaps.

These stories were our afternoon companions and gave us topics to talk about over a cup of tea.



Speaking of tea, many of us have enjoyed pouring ourselves a hot cup of the comforting beverage for these eagerly awaited afternoon soap sessions.

In line with these cherished pastimes, it’s with a heavy heart that we share the sad news regarding two extraordinary individuals who have passed away recently.

One was the man behind some of our most-beloved soap opera characters, and the other was the genius who created a popular tea brand many of us may have even sipped while enjoying our beloved soaps.



Nick Benedict, a renowned actor who graced the sets of All My Children, The Young and the Restless, and Days of Our Lives, sadly passed away on his birthday, July 14, at the age of 77.

His death was a result of complications that occurred after he had emergency spinal surgery.



Nick had a memorable acting journey, starting in 1973 when he played the character of Phil Brent in All My Children, stepping into the role previously held by Richard Hatch.

He left a lasting impression that went beyond the boundary of the show, securing himself a Daytime Emmy nomination for ‘Outstanding Actor in a Daytime Drama Series’ in 1979.

You might also remember him as Michael Scott in The Young and the Restless and Curtis Reed in Days of Our Lives.

Also, he didn't limit himself to soap operas and demonstrated his versatility by appearing in renowned series such as Mission Impossible and Hawaii Five-O. His dedication and talent didn't go unnoticed, making him an unforgettable figure in the television industry.


View attachment 25620
It's with deep sadness that we report the passing of two beloved and world-renowned figures. Credit: Facebook/Michael Fairman TV, Instagram/dilmahceylontea.



While we were still grappling with this loss, we heard another heartbreaking announcement.

The founder of the popular tea brand, Dilmah, Merrill J. Fernando, passed away in Colombo at the age of 93. His death left a void in the industry and in the hearts of his family, who mourn his loss.



What's unique about Fernando is he wasn't just a successful businessperson. He was a visionary who believed in ethical business and disrupting the tea industry, making an impact that changed the lives of many tea producers around the globe.

We thank him for his exceptional tea blends that brought a unique taste and flavour into our homes while also promoting business transparency and sustainability.

Fernando's commitment has left a lasting mark in the industry, inspiring many businesses to follow suit. Our thoughts are with his family during this challenging time, and hope his tradition of integrity and quality will continue.

Key Takeaways

  • Nick Benedict, a key figure in several major soap operas, passed away at the age of 77 due to complications following an emergency spinal surgery.
  • Benedict was known for his roles in soaps such as All My Children, The Young and the Restless and Days of Our Lives. He earned a Daytime Emmy nomination for his outstanding performance in a Daytime Drama Series.
  • Merrill J. Fernando, the founder of the popular tea brand Dilmah, has also passed away at the age of 93, leaving behind a significant legacy in the tea industry.
  • Fernando's dedication to integrity, quality and ethical business radically changed the existing exploitative tea industry, benefiting producers worldwide.

As we mourn these significant losses, let us honour their contributions that brought joy and connection to many. They may have left us, but their legacies will continue to live on—one scene, one cup of tea, at a time.

Their roles—be it on television guiding us through dramatic narratives or in our kitchen providing us with delightful cups of tea—will never be forgotten.

May they rest in peace.

Oh that's a grand old age 93. Must have been the tea! I'll be happy to get halfway there from now. Good workers those Ceylon tea workers, very hard workers.
 

Join the conversation

News, deals, games, and bargains for Aussies over 60. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, the club is all about helping you make your money go further.

Seniors Discount Club

The SDC searches for the best deals, discounts, and bargains for Aussies over 60. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, the club is all about helping you make your money go further.
  1. New members
  2. Jokes & fun
  3. Photography
  4. Nostalgia / Yesterday's Australia
  5. Food and Lifestyle
  6. Money Saving Hacks
  7. Offtopic / Everything else

Latest Articles

  • We believe that retirement should be a time to relax and enjoy life, not worry about money. That's why we're here to help our members make the most of their retirement years. If you're over 60 and looking for ways to save money, connect with others, and have a laugh, we’d love to have you aboard.
  • Advertise with us

User Menu

Enjoyed Reading our Story?

  • Share this forum to your loved ones.
Change Weather Postcode×
Change Petrol Postcode×